Creativity: A Key to Future Success
With mid-year exams wrapped up and graduation season on the horizon, excitement is building among the senior students and Grade 12 learners I work with. Many are starting to explore their next steps, whether that means further studies or the start of their careers. It’s an exciting time, but also one that calls for preparation beyond just qualifications.
To succeed in the fast-evolving world of work, especially in the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution—there are certain essential skills you’ll need. According to the World Economic Forum, the top 10 skills for future success are:
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Complex problem solving
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Critical thinking
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Creativity
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People management
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Coordinating with others
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Emotional intelligence
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Judgment and decision-making
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Service orientation
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Negotiation
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Cognitive flexibility
Among these, creativity stands out as one of the top three, and for good reason.
In a recent coffee conversation with an innovator from a well-known Cape Town firm, he shared how their company actively looks for candidates who, alongside the necessary qualifications, practice creativity as a habit. Whether it’s through art, music, writing, or other creative pursuits, these candidates bring a valuable mindset to their roles: one of exploration, adaptability, and original thinking.
Developing Your Creative Edge
One of the tools I regularly use in both workshops and one-on-one coaching is Design Thinking, developed by the d.school at Stanford University. This hands-on, human-centered approach to problem-solving not only sharpens your creative thinking skills, it also opens your mind to endless possibilities and innovative solutions.
If you’re feeling stuck about what to study or which career path to follow, a Thyme2B Design Thinking session could be exactly what you need. It’s a space to explore, ideate, and uncover fresh insights.
And just for fun, when was the last time you drew a picture with your non-dominant hand? Give it a try! It might feel awkward at first, but it’s a powerful exercise in shifting perspective, and who knows, a whole bunch of new ideas might surprise you in the process.
The future belongs to those who are willing to think differently.
Stay curious. Stay creative. And never stop exploring.
With love & hope,
Liesl
To book a Thyme2B Design thinking or coaching session, contact Liesl at Liesl@thyme2b.co.za
Read the full article on the top 10 skills to thrive in the Fourth Industrial Revolution at: https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2016/01/the-10-skills-you-need-to-thrive-in-the-fourth-industrial-revolution/
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